How to Make a DIY Exposed Bulb Pendant Light

Lighting plays a vital role in the feel of any interior space; it is what ties all the elements of the space altogether. Because I’ve recently renovated my bedroom and updated its design, I had to shop for interior design elements.

I have been eyeing a particular pendant lighting, but I am too cheap to shed out money for something I can make myself. As I was going for an industrial design chic decor, I created a diy exposed bulb pendant light to make my bedroom feel more authentic.

Some DIY projects require a lot of tools and materials, and can even take hours to finish; for this project, you'll only be needing a few materials, and a little bit of crafting skills.

What you’ll need:

1. Lighting Socket

Lighting sockets come in varied shape, sizes, and material; depending on your preference, you may opt for whatever pleases your eye. Since I was going for an industrial themed space, I opted for the brass and copper finish as it feels a little bit more classy and polished than plastic sockets.

Any electrical lighting socket can be used however, as long as it’s compatible with the light bulb you’ll be installing.

2. Electrical wire or extension cord

To make this project easier, i opted using an extension cord than an electrical wire wherein I still have to install a socket at the other end. The only downside with extension cords is that there is less options to choose from in terms of color and design. Stick to neutral colors such as white or black to make your pendant lighting appear minimalist and sleek.

Choosing the perfect light bulb can be hard: you have to consider the wattage, color, design, and even the warmth it gives off. I installed the pendant light only as an additional design to the room so I only opted for a low watt bulb. To add vibes to the space, I chose a warm color than a cool white bulb.

4. Nails

If you're particular with how the installation looks, then properly plan the location of the pendant lighting first before any nailing is done. Since I did not want to go through the hassle of having to take out the ceiling panel to conceal the wiring, I used bent nails to keep the wire in place.

5. Safety pin or screw hooks

Instead of bent nails, you can actually choose to nail the safety pin to hook and feed the wires. A gold safety pin can add character to your ceiling and give that extra DIY vibe. Screw hooks on the other hand are an easier option: you just nail them in and hook the wires in place.

Tools:

Screw driver

Pliers

Hammer

Procedure on how to make your DIY exposed bulb pendant light.

Step 1 - Remove lighting socket’s body or sheath and attach the wires

Take your lighting socket and pop off the base or sheath to reveal two screws on each side. Get your electrical wire and peel off the two strands of insulation to release the metal conductor. Make a U-shape out of these wires and attach them to each screw; remember to tighten the screws to secure them in place.

Also, make sure that the wire is running opposite the direction of the bulb screw. The wire will serve as the attachment of the socket and the light to the ceiling.

Step 2 - Test the connection

Prior to returning the body or sheath of the socket, test the connection if you are able let the current pass through. Screw in the light bulb, and after making sure that you are not touching any of the metal surface of the socket, plug it in a convenience outlet.

If the light bulb lights up, then you’re good to go. If it does not, unplug the wire and check the connection of wires to the screws of the socket.

Step 3 - Return the body or cover of the lighting socket

After unplugging the wire, unscrew the light bulb and return the cover of the lighting socket that we removed in step one. By first unscrewing the light bulb, you lessen the tendency of touching its glass while the body is being put back in place.

Step 4 - Install nails on your ceiling finish

To hang the lighting fixture, attach or feed the wire a safety pin or any metal loop you find convenient. After finalizing where to hang the bulb, nail the safety pin on the ceiling with a hammer.

If you find this to be unsightly, you can opt for U-shaped nails or screw hooks to attach the pendant lighting.

The best part about this diy exposed bulb pendant light project is the feeling and sense of fulfillment upon project completion. Take photos, feel the added personal touch, and admire your own creation.

Updating a space does not need to be expensive, adding your own personal touch is what will make it feel more personal. This tutorial about making a diy exposed bulb pendant light is as easy as pie, with just a few materials and a little bit of patience you can save a lot of money and personalize your space. Gather the items and try making one yourself. (It can also be a perfect gift for your friends!)

Leave a comment down below if you have additional tips and tricks to make this DIY project an easier task. If you enjoyed this tutorial, please don't forget to share this to your friends. Happy DIY-ing and good luck!

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